Floor treatment apparatus

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates generally to an apparatus for cleaning or otherwise treating a floored surface that includes a platform adapted to support the weight of an operator. In addition, one embodiment of the present invention is capable of generally performing 360° turns to facilitate the treatment of difficult to access portions of the floored surface.

This application is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/888,140, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,528,142, filed May 6, 2013, which is aContinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/554,593, now U.S.Pat. No. 8,438,685, filed Jul. 20, 2012, which is a Divisional of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 11/868,353, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,245,345,filed Oct. 5, 2007, which is a Continuation of U.S. patent Ser. No.11/059,663, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,533,435, filed Feb. 15, 2005, whichclaims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. Nos.60/545,153 and 60/627,606, filed Feb. 16, 2004 and Nov. 12, 2004,respectively, and which is a Continuation-In-Part of abandoned U.S.patent application Ser. No. 10/737,027, filed Dec. 15, 2003, which is aContinuation-In-Part of abandoned U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/438,485, filed May 14, 2003, the entire disclosures of which areincorporated by reference in their entirety herein.

This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/253,100, filed Oct. 17, 2005, now abandoned which is incorporated byreference in its entirety herein.

This application is also related to U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/589,321, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,397,333, filed Aug. 20, 2012, which is aContinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/511,704, now U.S.Pat. No. 8,302,240, filed Jul. 29, 2009, the entirety of which areincorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an apparatus for the treatment, such ascleaning, of a surface. More specifically, one embodiment of the presentinvention is an apparatus for surface cleaning that provides a standingor sitting location for the operator and is capable of operating intight spaces.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Cleaning machines are used extensively for cleaning flooring surfacescomprised of tile, stone, brick, wood, concrete, carpets and othercommon surfaces. Maintaining the cleanliness of these surfaces,especially in high volume areas in commercial, industrial, institutionaland public buildings is an ongoing and time consuming process. Thepresent invention relates to a highly maneuverable floor cleaning ortreatment apparatus (hereinafter “treatment apparatus”) that supports anoperator during use. More specifically, some embodiments of the presentinvention are adapted to clean, sweep, vacuum, burnish, wax, etc.(hereinafter “treat”) a floored surface, wherein the operator issupported by the cleaning device, thus increasing efficiency andproductivity of the cleaning operation. As used herein, “flooredsurface”, or more generally “surface”, encompasses areas covered byconcrete, tile, carpet, wood, plastic, stone, turf or any othersubstance known in the art. The prior devices address many issues thatarise with cleaning such floored surfaces. Unfortunately, prior to thepresent invention, there was no one device that could address many, ifnot all, of the issues that arise in cleaning various surfaces invarious environments at any given point in time.

Mop & Bucket Cleaning Devices

In the past, building maintenance staff and others often treat surfaces,such as tiled hallways or restroom floors, using traditional mop andbucket techniques. The bucket may include a detachable mop ringer andmay be positioned on caster wheels to facilitate easy movement.Depending on the cleanliness of the equipment, a worker may be able tomake a good start in treating a floor using the mop and bucket approach.However, soon the mop and fluid in the bucket becomes soiled orotherwise contaminated by germs and/or bacteria. From that point on,each time the worker plunges the mop into the bucket and rings the mop,both the mop and cleaning fluid become more and more dirty/contaminated.

Manually Propelled Cleaning Devices

The basic cleaning problems associated with the prior art mop & bucketapproach to cleaning a surfaces have generally been addressed in theart, as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,206,980 to Robinson, entitled“Multi-functional Cleaning Machine,” which is fully incorporated hereinby reference. This type of cleaning machine generally includes amanually propelled wheeled body with two tanks, one concentratedchemical receptacle, a vacuum and blower motor and a fluid pumpingsystem. Typically, such equipment includes only a single motor used forboth vacuuming soiled fluid and blowing air that can be used to dry acleaned surface. While such equipment is generally maneuverable and isan improvement over the earlier mop and bucket technology, the system isstill labor intensive and slow. As a result, productivity of cleaningprofessionals, when using these type of systems is generally decreasedover what it might be with other type of systems that are available.

Self Propelled Walk Behind Device

Productivity concerns have been addressed in the art by the creation ofcertain walk behind floor treatment apparatus. These apparatus typicallyhave a scrub deck at machine's front and a squeegee at its rear. Thesqueegee has the ability to “swing” or follow the path of the scrub deckas the machine changes direction. This type of equipment is generallymore efficient in cleaning large surface areas than either the mop andbucket or the manually propelled devices. Unfortunately, however, thedistance between the scrub deck and squeegee is relatively great. Also,walkbehinds typically have relatively wide squeegees. Thesecharacteristics limit such machine's maneuverability and limit thedoorways they can easily pass through. Typical 3′ doorway allows amachine with no more than a 33″ squeegee to fit through without removal.

Small walk behind floor cleaning apparatus typically include a scrubdeck in the middle of the machine and squeegees at the machine's rear.In this configuration the squeegee has little or no ability to swing orfollow the path of the scrub deck as the machine changes direction.Small rider scrubbers typically have relatively narrow squeegees, andrely on “side squeegees” (unvacuumized squeegee blades) adjacent to thescrub deck to direct the water into the path of the main (vacuumized)squeegee. The problem with these side squeegees is that they do notperform very well for very long and tend to leave a film of water inturns because the vacuumized squeegee does not follow the true path ofthe scrub deck, only the path of the side squeegees (which leave thefilm of water). Finally, side squeegee are typically very heavy rubberblades and have significant down-pressure applied to them to direct thewater—this makes them expensive and causes significant “drag” whichincreases the work for the propel unit and limits battery run-time.Thus, while more maneuverable than larger walk behind floor treatmentmachines, the small machines typically do not clean as well as thelarger machines.

Storage Issues in Prior Art Devices

Further, known cleaning machines do not provide adequate onboard storagefor cleaning supplies, tools, etc. Likewise, prior art machines do notoften provide a flexible approach to adding storage facilities for trashand the like when the need for such arises. Machinery that addressesthese issues is therefore needed.

Self-Propelled Ride-on Devices

Self-propelled cleaning devices are generally also well known in thefield and are employed to treat large floored surfaces, such as tiled,concrete or carpeted floors found in hospitals, department stores,schools, gyms, etc. These devices generally provide the operator withseating from which he/she can control operation of the device. Thesedevices are ideal for cleaning large, open areas because they arecapable of containing large amounts of waste fluids and/or debriswithout having to repeatedly perform time consuming fluid replacement ordebris removal. Moreover, because these devices provide the user withseating, the user does not become prematurely fatigued, increasingoverall worker productivity. Unfortunately, these large ride-on machinesare not particularly well-suited for cleaning smaller, more confinedfloor surfaces, which are often found in hallways, small rooms, or evenlarge rooms which have many obstacles therein.

As is well known in the art, smaller self-propelled cleaning devices arealso in existence that are ideal for cleaning the smaller rooms andhallways. However, smaller devices are usually pushed or pulled by anoperator. Hence, the major drawback of these devices is that they oftenrely on operator strength to maneuver the device. Even if the device isself-propelled, it often employs manual steering. After a long shift ofwalking behind a treatment device, the operator is bound to becomefatigued, wherein his or her attention will deviate from the task athand, thereby possibly resulting in uneven treatment to the flooredarea. Thus, a subsequent crew may have to return and retouch certainareas that were not accurately treated during the first operation. Inaddition, human errors related to the amount of time a surface isexposed to a brush, may occur when the operator lingers over a singlearea for extended period of time. This situation is never good for afloor surface. The devices in the art are also difficult to maneuver andoften are not adapted to operate around tight corners, wherein pre orpost cleaning operations must be performed, thus increasing the time andexpense of the entire task.

Thus, it is a long felt need in the field of floor cleaning or treatmentto provide a device that allows the operator to ride thereon, and whichis adapted to be used in small areas and/or around tight corners. Thefollowing disclosure describes an improved floor cleaning and treatmentdevice that is adapted for use in small areas that includes a platformadapted to support the operator to ensure optimum floor cleaning ortreatment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is one aspect of the present invention to provide a floor treatmentapparatus that is easy to maneuver. More specifically, one embodiment ofthe present invention is constructed of a chassis section that includesan enclosure that houses at least a portion of the internal componentsof the treatment device and a location for installation of devices thatare used during cleaning operations. In addition, one embodiment of thepresent invention provides a standing, leaning or sitting location forthe operator. Another embodiment of the present invention is equippedwith a powered steering device that allows for greater maneuverabilityin areas with tight corners, thereby ensuring that more of the flooringsurface is treated without having to perform pre or post treatmentoperations. More specifically, one embodiment of the present inventionis equipped with a self-propelled wheel and an easy to use steeringdevice to provide increased maneuverability around obstacles. Oneembodiment of the present invention employs at least one wheel thatprovides thrust and/or steering capability. Yet another embodiment ofthe present invention employs wheels that are substantially centeredunder the chassis such that the entire apparatus is generally capable of360° rotation without substantially traversing in any other direction,thus allowing it to treat tight corners of a surface. It is anotheraspect of the present invention to provide a cleaning apparatus that iscost effective to manufacture. Various aspects of the invention shallnow be described in more detail.

Chassis

One embodiment of the present invention employs a chassis section thatis designed to protect and house the internal workings of the apparatusand provide a location for interconnection of auxiliary treatmentdevices used therewith. One embodiment of the present invention employsa chassis that is constructed of rigid plastic, metal, or other commonmaterials used in the art. The chassis of this embodiment also isequipped with a platform for the operator. Alternative embodiments ofthe present invention employ a foldable, removable or stationaryoperator seat. In addition, other safety features such as pads or beltsmay be employed to secure the operator into the cleaning device and thushis/her working environment.

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a chassiswith a small envelope. More specifically, one embodiment of the presentinvention is small enough to fit into and through tight spaces. Oftenfacilities that employ the apparatus of the present invention includenarrow doorways, aisles and elevators. In addition, especially in olderbuildings that have been retrofitted to comply with the Americans withDisabilities Act, elevators are of minimal volume and liftingcapability. To fit into small elevators, the chassis is designed to havethe smallest practical envelope, a distinct advantage over the priorart. Also, the apparatus of one embodiment of the present inventionincludes components that are easily removable or adjustable to reducethe profile of the apparatus. Thus, the embodiments of the presentinvention may be used in various structures.

Steering Mechanism

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a cleaningapparatus that is easy to operate and maneuver. More specifically, oneembodiment of the present invention is equipped with a steeringmechanism that allows for inputs from the operator to be efficientlycommunicated to the steering wheels of the cleaning apparatus.Alternatively, other steering means may be used to facilitatemaneuverability of the treatment apparatus, such as joy sticks, touchscreens, buttons, remote control elements, etc.

It is still yet another aspect of the present invention to provide acleaning apparatus that is adapted to efficiently clean areas with tightcorners. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention isadapted to generally perform 360° turns without appreciable lateralmotion. This embodiment of the present invention is equipped with aturning mechanism generally under the center of the chassis with twopowered exterior wheels adjacent thereto that provide power to thechassis to pivot around the centered wheel. The powered exterior wheelsmay be independently controlled by joy sticks, wherein movement thereofsend directional inputs to each wheel. One embodiment of the inventionis equipped with at least one joy stick wherein forward deflection willimpart forward motion, rearward deflection will impart rearward motion,and a side-to-side deflection will cause the apparatus to turn.Alternatively, two joy sticks may be used in a similar manner, whereinrearward deflection of the left joy stick and forward deflection of theright joy stick will result in a left turn, and depending on theplacement of the powered wheels, perhaps a 360° left hand turn.

Another embodiment of the present invention utilizes a steering wheel,handle bars, a yoke, or similar apparatus for steering. Embodiments mayalso include a power-assisted steering mechanism.

Power Plant

It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a treatmentapparatus that is powered by commonly used power plants. Morespecifically, one embodiment of the present invention employs anelectric motor to power the apparatus. The electric motor may be poweredby batteries, solar energy or an electrical cord attached to a permanentpower source. Alternatively, the present invention may be powered by aninternal combustion engine. Other propulsion means may also be employedby the present invention without departing from its scope, as will beappreciated by one skilled in the art.

Floor Treatment Devices

One embodiment of the present invention employs a chassis that houses afluid pump assembly and a vacuum assembly. The apparatus furtherincludes at least two tanks, one for retaining a base cleaning fluid,such as water, and a second for retaining spent cleaning solution, drydebris, etc. The apparatus may also include one or more concentratedcleaning chemical receptacles designed to hold concentrated cleaningchemicals. The receptacles are preferably stored within a lockablestructure, adding safety to the overall apparatus. These agents can beadded to a base cleaning fluid just prior to application to a surfaceand as desired to facilitate cleaning of various surfaces.

Tanks

As briefly mentioned above, preferably at least one tank is providedthat provides a solution that is directed towards the flooring surfaceto be cleaned to facilitate treatment. The tank may be constructed withmultiple compartments wherein waste water from the surface is containedprior to disposal. More specifically, one embodiment of the presentinvention employs a tank that includes a movable membrane. In thisconfiguration, the clean water and/or cleaning solution is deposited ona surface and agitated. Dirty water is next suctioned up and depositedback into a portion of the tank, thereby moving a membrane accordinglyto accept the dirty water. Such a configuration is disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 4,759,094, which is herein incorporated in its entirety by thisreference. A similar selectively expandable fluid storage area can becreated by utilizing a collapsible structure, which is placed inside ofthe primary fluid tank. This type of arrangement is disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 4,196,492, which is also incorporated herein in its entirety bythis reference.

Clean water can obviously come from an outside source such as a hose,rather than be stored on board the device. However, in order tofacilitate maneuverability and usability of the present invention, it isenvisioned that the chassis will house or hold at least one fluid tankand perhaps a plurality thereof.

Cleaning Solutions

In one type of treatment operation, fluid from the chemical receptaclesflows through a tube to a chemical selector, which may include ametering valve. The selector preferably has a positive shut-offposition, wherein fluid is prevented from flowing through the selectorregardless of the fluid pressure in a fluid line. The selector isresponsive to input from an operator selection of one of the severalcleaning chemicals. Once a chemical is selected, it is free to flowthrough the chemical selector and appropriate amounts thereof may beprovided to one of any number of inlets to a mixing tee. The amount ofchemical allowed to flow may be adjusted by a metering valve built intothe selector or separate from the selector, in a known fashion. A basecleaning fluid, such as water, may flow from a fluid tank and through aseparate tube to a second leg of a mixing tee. The cleaning fluid andconcentrated cleaning chemical then mix within the mixing tee to createa cleaning solution. That solution may then be passed through theselector outlet to a pressure pump, wherein the cleaning solution may bepressurized and communicated via appropriate tubing to a dispensingdevice. The pump, which draws fluid to and through the selector, alsopreferably includes a bypass system to facilitate regulation of pumppressure. Use of the pump to draw fluid is preferred as it does notcreate unwanted pressures in the fluid lines and the system, in general,is not subject to gravity feeding of fluid.

A solution may be applied to a surface using any type of dispensingdevice. In a preferred embodiment, the dispensing device or associatedsolution lines or tubes include an adjustable valve, which may be usedto adjust the pressure and flow of solution allowed to exit thedispensing device. Because of the adjustability, the apparatus may beutilized as a pre-cleaner for various carpet treatments, includingspotting or other treatments.

By use of the chemical selector, two or more receptacles of floortreatment chemicals may be fluidly connected to a mixing tee. Inoperation, a user is capable of creating any number of cleaningsolutions without the need for adding receptacles or switching chemicalfeed lines from one receptacle to another or without changing meteringtips that are easily misplaced, incorrectly interconnected, or damaged.Thus, the treatment process is safer because there is less chemicalhandling. Similarly, use of a metering valve will allow the operator tocreate a very precise floor treatment solution.

It is preferred that one-way check valves be used throughout theapparatus. For instance, check valves may be included in: delivery linesthat supply cleaning chemicals to the metering tee; lines that supplywater to the metering tee; lines that supply cleaning solution to thepump; lines that supply cleaning solution to the spray gun; or in themetering tee, itself. The check valves prevent reversal of fluid andprevent contamination of one fluid with another.

Blower

The treatment apparatus also may include a modular blower assembly. Theblower assembly may be hand-held and operate completely apart from theoverall cleaning machine. The blower assembly may be used to dry areasphysically separate from where the apparatus is stored. Because theblower assembly possibly is separate from the apparatus, it may also beused for other blowing functions, such as blowing leaves, grass, dirt orother debris. The blower assembly may be used with a detachable handnozzle, a flexible nozzle, an extension wand, etc., thereby increasingthe overall flexibility of the blower assembly. The blower assembly mayutilize an integrated on/off switch and be powered by electricitysupplied by any typical extension cord, including the power source ofthe apparatus. The blower may be configured to be stored on theapparatus in one of any number of convenient ways. It will beappreciated by one skilled in the art that having a modular blowerassembly of this type is very beneficial to the overall functionality ofa multifunctional floor treatment apparatus.

Storage

Another aspect of one embodiment of the present invention is that thechassis includes bins, trays, bays and other storage devices preferablywithin easy reach of the operator. The storage devices provide theoperator with substantial flexibility when cleaning a large building orarea that has many types of surfaces that may need treatment. Also, theapparatus provides for modular trash/supply bins that may be added to orremoved from the apparatus quickly and easily so that the machine can beconfigured for one of any number of floor treatment activities.

Primary Pump

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide anapparatus equipped with a secondary fluid pump that supplies fluid tothe main fluid pump prior to ignition. More specifically, one embodimentof the present invention includes a secondary, or priming pump, which isactivated prior to the activation of the main fluid pump. Often it isdesirable to introduce fluid into a main fluid pump prior to that pump'sactivation, thereby expelling trapped air that may cause damage to themain fluid pump motor from vapor lock or cavitation, for example. Thispriming process may be conducted manually, but that is time consuming,wherein the user manually adds fluid to the pump or bleeds the airtherefrom. Alternatively, and preferably, one embodiment of the presentinvention is equipped with a secondary pump that is activated for abrief moment when the fluid discharge apparatus is initially activated,thus ensuring that the main fluid pump will be substantially free oftrapped air upon activation.

Squeegee

It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a device thatincludes a squeegee adjacent to the floor treatment device, bothgenerally in the middle of the machine. The squeegee effectively swings,or follows the path of the floor and does not rely on unvacuumized sidesqueegees to channel water to the main vacuumized squeegee. Thus, itoffers as good or better fluid pick-up when the apparatus is turningthan is capable with a walk behind scrubber, and far superior thantypical small riders since it does not rely on smearing side squeegees.One embodiment of the present invention, employs a squeegee that pivotsabout the steering axis with a linkage that is supported by a roller andtrack mechanism. The absence of side squeegees mean less drag and betteruse of available energy. In addition, some embodiments of the presentinvention include an adjustable squeegee, a skirt or a shroud thatminimally contacts the floor, thus reducing drag and sparing batterycharge. Alternatively, some embodiments of the present invention includestops that contact the floor, without marring the same.

Use of the Device

Various aspects of the inventions discussed briefly above combine toprovide an effective and efficient tool, useful in the treatment ofnumerous areas in and around commercial, industrial, institutional andpublic buildings. Moreover, due to the various aspects of the presentinvention, a sanitation maintenance worker may clean a particular roomor facility more efficiently than previously possible. The presentinvention may be used in various cleaning operations such as burnishing,vacuuming, scrubbing, sanding, waxing, sweeping, sealing, painting,polishing, etc. In order to accomplish these tasks, the presentinvention may be equipped with various combinations of floor treatmentdevices. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention isequipped with a plurality of brushes and squeegees to agitate andcollect debris from a flooring surface. In addition, suction mechanismsmay be employed such that fluids and/or dry particulate matter aretransferred into a container. It is also envisioned that one embodimentof the present invention include at least one solution applicatorpositioned adjacent to the scrub brushes, wherein solution is injectedonto the surface after, or prior to, agitation by the brushes. Thedebris-entrained solution is then collected by the squeegee andsubsequently vacuumed into the holding tank or expelled out of thechassis to an outside reservoir. The brushes and/or solution used inthis embodiment may be adapted to clean, sweep, paint, burnish, sand,strip, varnish or wax a floor. It will be appreciated by one skilled inthe art that any type of solution adapted to treat any flooring surfacemay be employed without departing from the scope of the presentinvention.

It is yet another aspect of the present invention provide a floortreatment apparatus that can be used in various floor maintenanceoperations. More specifically, one embodiment of the present inventionis adapted for interconnection to a plurality of devices to perform avariety of floor treatment operations. It is envisioned that oneembodiment of the present invention be capable of quick removal ofcertain treatment devices such that different devices may be then addedto quickly change the scope of the apparatus, thereby providing a deviceadapted to scrub, clean carpets, wax floors, burnish floors, remove waxor varnish from floors, vacuum, etc. Thus, it is contemplated, that thissystem may be used for a plurality of cleaning or floor treatmentoperations.

Remote Control

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a highlymobile floor treatment apparatus that can include a car washer assembly.As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, if so configured,the device could include a car washer wand connected to appropriatepumps and could be utilized to pre-clean heavily soiled areas prior tofinal cleaning with use of the device.

It is still another aspect of the present invention to provide a floortreatment apparatus that does not require direct contact with anoperator to perform its tasks. More specifically, one embodiment of thepresent invention is adapted to be remote controlled. This embodiment ofthe present invention is equipped with remote control mechanisms andsoftware currently known in the art, such as taught by U.S. Pat. No.6,625,843 to Kim et al., which is incorporated in its entirety herein.In addition, this embodiment of the present invention may be equippedwith the plurality of cameras such that offsite monitoring and controlmay be performed. In a related embodiment of the present invention,software is installed in the cleaning apparatus such that human contactor monitoring is not required. More specifically, one embodiment of thepresent invention is adapted to learn its environment as it operates inan area such that remote controlling is not required. Alternatively, itis well within the scope of this invention to preprogram the dimensionof floored surfaces into the smart treatment device, wherein the deviceis parameterized with the surface dimensions before the task isinitiated. Apparatus of this type are known in the art, such as theRoomba™ device by iRobot Corporation, aspects of which are described inU.S. Pat. Nos. 6,594,844 and 6,535,793, which are both incorporated intheir entirety herein.

Safety

It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a cleaningapparatus that is safe and comfortable to use. More specifically, oneembodiment of the present invention includes an operator platform. Thisplatform allows the operator to stand on the device during the treatmentoperation, thus increasing productivity and lowering the chances ofinjury or fatigue to the operator. It another embodiment of the presentinvention, a seat is provided wherein the operator may comfortably sitwhile completing his or her task. Other safety and comfort features suchas rails, pads, and belts, may be provided depending on the needs of theoperator.

Thus, it is one aspect of the present invention to provide a floortreatment apparatus which comprises:

a chassis with a lower surface, a front surface, an upper surface, arear surface, a left surface and a right surface, wherein a platform isprovided that is adapted to support the weight of an operator;

a powered wheel operably connected adjacent the lower surface of thechassis, the powered wheel being capable of at least one oftransitioning and rotating the floor treating apparatus;

a steering mechanism adjacent to the upper surface that is accessible bythe operator;

an operable floor treating device connected adjacent to the lowersurface of the chassis;

an operable debris collection device connected adjacent to the lowersurface of the chassis; and

wherein an operator controls the floor treatment apparatus from theplatform.

The Summary of the Invention is neither intended nor should it beconstrued as being representative of the full extent and scope of thepresent invention. Some aspects of the present invention are set forthin various levels of detail in the Summary of the Invention, as well asin the attached drawings and the Detailed Description of the Invention.No limitation as to the scope of the present invention is intended byeither the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. inthis Summary of the Invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention andtogether with the general description of the invention given above andthe detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explainthe principles of these embodiments.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the present inventionshowing an operator standing on the platform thereon;

FIG. 2 is a perspective of an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention that is configured for fluid extraction, and which iscontrolled by at least one joy stick;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view and alternative embodiment of the presentinvention that is configured for burnishing operations;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention that is equipped with moveable brushes that are adapted toswing out to more efficiently treat a floor surface, and which alsoincludes a wand for selectively cleaning difficult to reach areas;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention that is designed to rotate about an 360° axis withoutsignificantly traversing in other directions;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention that is designed to reach tight areas of floor surface;

FIG. 7 is a detailed perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6,showing the steering wheel, brush, and squeegee assembly used therewith;

FIG. 8 is a top plan view of a flooring surface;

FIGS. 9A-B are bottom plan views showing configurations of steering,cleaning, and power mechanisms;

FIG. 10 is a bottom plan view of an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention showing an alternate configuration of steering, cleaning, andpower mechanisms;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention that is adapted to be remotely controlled;

FIGS. 12A-H are views of a rotatable squeegee for use in one embodimentof the present invention;

FIGS. 13A-D are views of a waste fluid system showing a strain basketand a drainage port of one embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 14A-D are views of the rear housing and battery tray of oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a control panel and handles of oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an operator platform with a pluralityof switches of one embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 17A-B is are views of a seat of one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIGS. 18A-D are views of a tank and front housing of one embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIGS. 19A-B are views of a vacuum fan interconnected to the fronthousing of one embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 20 is a right elevation view of one embodiment of the presentinvention showing the waste water return hose.

To assist in the understanding of the present invention the followinglist of components and associated numbering found in the drawings isprovided herein:

Component #

-   -   Floor treating apparatus 2    -   Platform 4    -   Operator 6    -   Chassis 8    -   Bottom surface of chassis 10    -   Brush 12    -   Rotating brush 13    -   Scrubber 14    -   Squeegee 16    -   Wheel 18    -   Steering wheel 20    -   Joy stick 22    -   Handle Grip 24    -   Powered wheel 26    -   Burnishing pad 28    -   Swinging brush 30    -   Wand 32    -   Hose 34    -   Swing arm 36    -   Bearing 38    -   Track 40    -   Pivot point 42    -   Handle 44    -   Cam 46    -   Strainer basket 48    -   Waste tank cover 49    -   Waste fluid intake 50    -   Main Storage Tank 51    -   Clean fluid intake 52    -   Fitting 54    -   Flange 56    -   Waste fluid bag 58    -   Mandrill 60    -   Drain hose 62    -   Band Clamp 64    -   Rear housing 66    -   Battery 68    -   Tray 70    -   Drink holder 72    -   Housing pad 74    -   Control panel 76    -   Fastener 77    -   Operator presence switch 80    -   Throttle 82    -   Seat 84    -   Adjustment Mechanism 85    -   Hook 86    -   Front housing 88    -   Light 89    -   Vacuum fan 92    -   Vacuum exhaust channels 94    -   Waste H2O return hose 96    -   Hose channel 98    -   Tip over stops 100    -   Primary housing 104

It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale.In certain instances, details which are not necessary for anunderstanding of the invention or which render other details difficultto perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course,that the invention is not necessarily limited to the particularembodiments illustrated herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to FIGS. 1-20 an apparatus 2 for cleaning or otherwisetreating a floor surface is shown. More specifically, one embodiment ofthe present invention includes a chassis 8 with a platform 4 that isadapted to support the weight of an operator 6, thus increasing theefficiency of the entire floor treatment operation. In addition, variouscleaning or floor treatment components may be interconnected to thebottom surface 10 of the chassis, such as brushes 12, scrubbers 14,squeegees 16, vacuum shoes, etc.

The chassis 8 also includes a plurality of wheels 18 operablyinterconnected to the bottom surface 10 to enable steering and providestability. It is contemplated that the operator 6 will stand on theplatform 4 and steer the apparatus 2 with either a steering wheel 20 orother type of steering mechanism, such as a joy stick 22. Such anembodiment of the present invention enables the floor surface to becleaned or otherwise treated more efficiently, since the operator 6 doesnot have to push or pull an often heavy apparatus 2. In addition, sincethe human component of powering or otherwise moving the apparatus 2 isomitted, more consistent flooring treatment is achieved, thereby savingmaterials and reducing costs of the entire operation.

Referring now to FIG. 1, one embodiment of the present invention isshown. More specifically, the chassis 8 which includes the platform 4adapted to support the operator 6 during the floor treatment operationis shown. The operator 6 preferably stands on the platform 4 that isgenerally parallel to the flooring surface. Preferably, the platform 4is tilted, rear edge higher than the front edge, between about 3 to 8degrees to increase ergonomics. However, as it will be appreciated byone skilled in the art, other support devices, such as seats, which maybe operably folded into the chassis 8, may be provided to increase thecomfort level of the operator 6. In addition, the embodiment of thepresent invention shown in FIG. 1 is equipped with a steering mechanism,such as a wheel 18, that allows the operator 6 to easily maneuver theapparatus 2 around the flooring surface.

The chassis 8 is constructed of any material, but preferably hardplastic will be used to reduce the weight of the apparatus 2. As shownherein, a plurality of wheels 18 are operably interconnected to the rearof the apparatus 2 to provide stability and perhaps power forlocomotion. In addition, a squeegee 16 is included that is adapted toextract or funnel water or debris to a location where it is extractedvia vacuum into a container generally, but not always, located at leastpartially inside the chassis 8. Further, this embodiment of the presentinvention includes a brush 12 that is used to agitate the flooringsurface to loosen dirt, wherein spray nozzles may be employed situatedbehind the brush 12 to treat the flooring and capture the dirt so thatit can be gathered by the squeegee 16 and suction system of theapparatus 2.

Referring now to FIG. 2, an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention that is used mainly for fluid extraction is shown. Thisembodiment of the present invention is similar to the apparatusdescribed above, however alternate components are interconnected to thebottom surface 10 of the chassis 8 such that the apparatus is adapted toefficiently capture fluids or debris deposited on a floored surface.More specifically, this embodiment of the present invention is equippedwith at least one brush 12 adapted to agitate water and/or debris and asqueegee 16 that is positioned adjacent to the rear surface of thechassis 8 that contains fluid and debris as the apparatus 2 movesforward. In one embodiment of the present invention, a suction device,such as a vacuum shoe, is positioned near the squeegee 16 such thatdirty water is vacuumed from the surface and transferred back into atank situated inside or adjacent to the chassis 8. Alternatively,another embodiment of the present invention is provided with a squeegee16 with a plurality of suction holes that are the terminus of conduitsthat transport waste water to the storage tank.

In the illustrated embodiment, the operator 6 is able to control theapparatus 2 with a plurality of joy sticks 22. In addition, hand grips24 are provided on the sides of the operator 6 to increase safety.Further, this embodiment of the present invention employs powered wheels26 that allow the entire system to rotate on a single vertical axiswithout substantially transitioning in other directions. Morespecifically, this embodiment of the present invention is capable ofperforming a 360° turn, which aids cleaning of tight spaces.

An alternate embodiment of the present invention that is used forburnishing is shown in FIG. 3. This embodiment of the present inventionincludes a burnishing pad 28 operably interconnected to the bottomsurface of the chassis 10. As before, the operator 6 stands on aplatform 4 built into the chassis 8. One skilled in the art willappreciate that this embodiment of the present invention may alsoinclude a device for suctioning debris left over from the burnishingprocess, such as dust or wax particulates, for example.

Referring now to FIG. 4, an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention that employs swinging brushes 30 is shown. This embodiment ofthe present invention is very similar to those described above, howeverthe brushes 30 used to agitate, scrub, or burnish are rotatablyinterconnected to the bottom surface 10 of the chassis 8. Morespecifically, the brushes 30 of this embodiment are capable ofindependently folding inwardly, thereby efficiently cleaning theinterior portion of a floor when the apparatus is operating near avertical surface such as a wall. As shown herein, the brushes 30 areindependently movable and preferably spring loaded outward such thatcontact with a vertical surface causes the brush 30 to fold under thechassis 8. Alternatively, as one in the art will appreciate, theorientation of the brushes may be controlled by the operator. Inaddition, a wand 32 interconnected to a hose 34 may also be employedwith this embodiment of the present invention to allow for selectiveapplication of cleaning solution or suction.

Referring now to FIG. 5, another embodiment of the present inventionthat utilizes centered powered wheels 26 is shown. More specifically,this embodiment of the invention is similar to those described above,however it is equipped with a plurality of wheels 26 that allow a 360°turning capability. This embodiment of the present invention is alsosimilarly adapted for cleaning the surface of a floor with a brush 12 ora plurality thereof that is used to agitate the dirt wherein a squeegeecontains and suctions debris into a container.

Referring now to FIGS. 6-8, an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention is shown that is equipped with a wheel 18 with brushes 12therearound for cleaning in all directions. This embodiment of thepresent invention is equipped with brushes 12 that allow for cleaning oragitation of the flooring surface in any direction the apparatus 2 ismoving, thus efficiently cleaning flooring without having to makemultiple passes over the surface.

Referring now to FIG. 9A-B, one configuration of cleaning componentsinterconnected to the bottom surface 10 of the chassis 8 is shown. Morespecifically, one embodiment of the present invention is adapted toeither sweep or clean a floor. In the illustrated embodiment, apresweeping brush 12 agitates the carpet or hardwood floor to loosendebris. Next, rotating scrubbing brushes further agitate the surface andperhaps add fluid and cleaning solution thereto to help loosen andcontain any loose debris. Finally, a squeegee 16 and preferably asuction system is provided that captures the dirty water and as theapparatus is moved forward. As shown herein, the drive unit is thecenter wheel 26, which is also adapted to selectively rotate uponsteering commands from the operator 6.

FIG. 9B shows a configuration of cleaning components interconnected tothe bottom surface 10 of the chassis 8 similar to what was shown in FIG.9A. The difference, however, is that the pre-sweeping brush 12 has beenreplaced by three scrub brushes or three rotating brushes, 13A, 13B and13C that may be used to either sweep, burnish or combinations thereof afloor surface. The brushes can rotate at speeds desired by the operatoror at preselected speeds and in directions selected by the operator orin pre-selected directions.

Referring now to FIG. 10, an alternate configuration of the cleaningcomponents interconnected to the bottom surface 10 of the chassis 8 isshown. More specifically, this configuration is substantially similar tothat shown above in FIG. 9, however, the drive mechanism of theapparatus is a transaxled power plant that provides power to the rearwheels 26, wherein the steering is performed by a front wheel. In oneembodiment of the present invention the drive mechanism is an electricmonowheel drive. In another embodiment, the drive mechanism comprisesrear wheels that are independently driven by drive motors.

Referring now to FIG. 11, yet another embodiment of the presentinvention performs a floor treatment operation without the need ofphysical human contact is shown. More specifically, this embodiment ofthe present invention is remote controlled or otherwise intelligent suchthat it cleans a floored surface without the direct contact of anoperator. This embodiment of the present invention may be configured forany task, such as scrubbing, sweeping, vacuuming, burnishing, carpetcleaning, waxing, surfacing, cleaning, etc. It is envisioned that theoperator be in a separate location, perhaps offsite from the actualcleaning operation, and aided by remote viewing devices. Alternatively,one embodiment of the present invention is programmed with the abilityto automatically treat a floor surface, wherein the dimensions of thesurface are either programmed into or learned as the apparatus is inuse, thereby alleviating any need for human contact with the apparatus.This embodiment of the present invention may be deployed from a storagelocation automatically wherein quick disconnects to fluid sources orwaste receptacles are remotely joined to it such that filling andemptying tanks or waste containers inside the chassis 8 is done withoutthe need of a human operator as well. This embodiment of the presentinvention may be used in areas where it is dangerous for humans tooperate, such as nuclear power plants, areas where asbestos exposure islikely, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 12A-G, a squeegee 16 for use in one embodiments ofthe present invention is shown. More specifically, some embodiments ofthe present invention include a pivot mechanism that allows the squeegee16 to remain in place when the floor treating apparatus 2 is turning.Thus, the amount of fluid extracted when the apparatus 2 is making atight turn is increased. In the illustrated embodiment, the squeegee 16is connected to a swing arm 36 that pivots about a point adjacent to thefront wheel 18 of the apparatus. The swing arm 36 is supported viarollers or bearings 38 on a track 40 that maintain the squeegee's 16vertical position relative to the floor. Upon making a right or lefthand turn, friction will tend to keep the squeegee 16 in a straightline, following the original path of the vehicle. Once a new line oftravel is established, the squeegee 16 will fall back in placesubstantially under the apparatus 2. FIG. 12A shows the squeegee 16 inits upmost left position, while FIG. 12C shows the squeegee in itsupmost right position. FIG. 12B shows the squeegee in a neutral positionwhile FIG. 12D shows the squeegee in a neutral position but from a sideview.

The squeegee 16 of one embodiment of the present invention is providedwith a plurality of wheels that interface with the floor to maintain thevertical clearance of the squeegee assembly. In addition, side rollersmay be provided that prevent the squeegee 16 from contacting a verticalsurface, such as a wall. These wheels and various portions of thesqueegee assembly may be selectively adjustable such that the width ofthe squeegee 16 and the placement of the wheels (squeegee height) may bealtered at will.

As shown herein, the swing arm 36 connects to a pivot 42 that utilizesthe momentum of the squeegee 16 to swing it from the apparatus 2.However, one skilled in the art will appreciate other methods oftransitioning the squeegee 16 from the floor treatment apparatus 2 maybe utilized without departing from the scope of the invention. Morespecifically, a motorized system may be employed that is incommunication with the steering system of the vehicle such that rotationof the steering wheel will swing the squeegee 16 away from the apparatus2 in a predetermined manner.

An actuation system that selectively raises the squeegee 16 from thefloor may also be included as shown in FIG. 12E. In accordance with someembodiments of the present invention, a handle actuated leverage system44 is used and is in mechanical communication with a cam 46. The camallows the user to apply minimal force to the handle 44 adjacent to thecontrol panel to raise and lower the squeegee 16. One skilled in the artwill also appreciate that this function may be performed alternativelywith a motor.

FIG. 12H is a blow-up of a section of FIG. 12D showing positioning ofthe track 40 in relation to bearing 38.

Referring now to FIG. 13A-D, a recovery tank strainer basket 48 of oneembodiment of the present invention is shown. Recovery tanks of someembodiments of the present invention are constructed out of resilientlydeflectable material, such as a plastic bag. The bag is inserted intothe clean fluid tank 51 of the apparatus. Once the clean fluid istransferred to the floor treatment tool of the apparatus, waste watermay be suctioned into the waste fluid tank, thus expanding the bag andoccupying the space once occupied by now dispensed clean fluid. Often,small metal shavings, wood splinters, glass, etc., may be suctioned withthe waste fluid and deposited into the waste fluid tank, which mayproduce rips or tears in the bag and ultimately lead to leakage andcontamination of the cleaning fluid. Thus, it is desirable to have asystem that captures any dangerous debris such that it does not come incontact with the waste fluid tank. One embodiment of the presentinvention thus includes a strain basket 48 connected to the cover 49 ofthe waste fluid tank. In the illustrated embodiment, a generallyrectangular straining device constructed of a rigid material with aplurality of apertures therethrough is provided. As the waste water isdeposited into the tank through the cover, any large debris is capturedby the strain basket 48. One skilled in the art will appreciate that anysized aperture may be employed to dictate the size of debris that iscaptured. Also, it should be specifically understood that any shape ofstrain basket 48 may be used without departing from the scope of theinvention.

Referring now specifically to FIG. 13D, a fluid discharge system that isconnected to the waste water tank 58 of one embodiment of the presentinvention is shown. More specifically, a fitting 54 with a flange 56 maybe used that is connected to the main storage tank 51 of the apparatus.Preferably, the fitting 54 is spun at a high rate of speed and engagedwith an aperture in the tank 51, thus creating friction induced heatbetween the two surfaces and welding them together. The opening of thewaste water bag 58 is then fed through the fitting 54 and a mandrill 60is added to sandwich the waste water bag 58 therebetween. The mandrill60 is made out of a rigid material, such as aluminum to ensure an openflow path. A drain hose 62 is slid over the outer surface of the fitting54 and is secured with a clamp 64. One skilled in the art willappreciate that the drain hose 64 is generally capped during use,wherein the user disconnects the cap to drain the waste water from thebag 58. To ensure that the bag 58 is entirely empty, a new solution maybe added to the tank, thus squeezing the bag 58 to expel all the wastewater contained therein.

Referring now to FIG. 14A-D, the rear portion of the floor treatmentapparatus 2 is shown. More specifically, the rear of the apparatus 2includes a removable housing 66. The housing 66 of the present inventionis capable of selective rotation away from a primary housing 104 aboutan axis parallel to the rear axle of the apparatus 2. Alternatively, therear housing 66 may be completely removable. This aspect of the presentinvention provides the ability to access batteries 68 that may providepower to the apparatus 2. The batteries 68 may reside on a removabletray 70 that is slidingly engaged to the apparatus 2, thus providingeasy access for maintenance. The tray 70 resides on tracks thatinterface with a plurality of wheels, bearings, etc. The tray alsoincludes a locking feature that securedly maintains the batteries 68inside the vehicle. The rear housing 66 also includes other features,such as a cavity for securing various items and drink holders 72. A pad74 may also be included that provides greater protection and comfort tothe user.

Referring now to FIG. 15, a control panel 76 and associated structure ofone embodiment of the present invention is shown. Embodiments of thepresent invention include a control panel 76 that includes minimalfasteners 77 for interconnection to the floor treatment apparatus 2.That is, thumb screws, or similar type of fasteners may be included suchthat quick and easy removal of the control panel 76 may be achieved tofacilitate repair.

Embodiments of the present invention also include hand grips 24 adjacentto the control panel 76 to provide support for the operator. Morespecifically, during tight turns the inertial forces acting upon anindividual may cause an operator to fall. Hand grips 24, which may beintegrated onto the chassis of the apparatus, will give the operator aplace to hold onto the device for added comfort and provide anadditional safety feature. In addition they provide support whenoperating control switches located adjacent to handle grip 78.

Referring now to FIG. 16, the platform 4 of one embodiment of thepresent invention is shown. More specifically, one embodiment of thepresent invention includes a platform 4 with an operator presence switch80, a platform switch and a throttle 82. The platform 4 also may includea suspension system and be cushioned to increase operator comfort. Inaddition, the platform 4 may be foldable such that the envelop of theapparatus may be selectively reduced. In some embodiments of the presentinvention the platform 4 is located above an axis defined by the centersof the wheels located near the rear of the floor cleaning machine, asspecifically shown at least in FIGS. 12A-12D, and 19A. In someembodiments of the present invention, the platform 4 is located below anaxis defined by the centers of the wheels located near the rear of thefloor cleaning machine, as specifically shown at least in FIG. 14B. Insome other embodiments of the present invention, the outer surface ofthe wheels located near the rear of the floor cleaning machine define acylindrical volume, and the platform 4 is located such that a portionthereof penetrates the volume defined by the wheels, as specificallyshown at least in FIGS. 12A-12D, 14A, 14B, 16 and 20. In someembodiments of the present invention, the platform 4 is located below anuppermost point of the wheels located near the rear of the floorcleaning machine. As shown in FIG. 16, one embodiment of the presentinvention includes a platform with a left sidewall and a right sidewallthat extend above the surface that receives the operator's feet.Embodiments of the present invention may also include a front wallextending from a front, inner surface that receives the operator's feet.Further, as shown in FIG. 9B, the platform may be associated with rearwheels that are not interconnected.

The operator presence switch 80 of one embodiment of the presentinvention is designed to act as a safety feature that interrupts thethrottle pedal when not depressed. This ensures that the operator hasboth feet positioned on the platform when the machine is in use. Upondeactivation of the switch, for example if the operator removes a footfrom the switch, a neutral mode may be engaged such that no power orforward or rearward motion of the device is possible. In addition, theoperator presence switch 80 may ensure that sufficient weight ismaintained on the platform at all times as a safety feature.

In the typical use, the platform switch is in operable connection withthe platform, such that it is activated when the operator stands on theplatform. The operator must then engage a reset device, preferably onthe control panel, to initiate motion. The purpose of the platformswitch and reset switch is to act as a safety feature such that themachine does not immediately move when the operator steps on to thepeddle platform. Upon deactivation of the switch, for example if theoperator steps from the apparatus, a neutral mode may be engaged suchthat no power and forward or rearward motion is possible.

The throttle 82 of some embodiments of the present invention is adaptedto selectively increase or decrease the speed of the apparatus dependingon the desires of the operator. More specifically, various speed rangesmay be included: neutral, first, second, third, reverse, etc. (or slow,medium, fast, etc.). In some embodiments, cleaning operations areperformed at slow speeds, while transportation from location to locationis performed at higher speeds. When the operator sets the speed range tofirst, for example, the activation of the throttle 82 will propel theapparatus within that speed range, such that it cannot transition fromthe first range to the second range without a manual shift of the range.Thus, embodiments of the present invention include a hand speed rangeselector, wherein the throttle 82 simply turns the desired speed rangeto an activated mode. The neutral mode may also be set by the operator,wherein no amount of throttle 82 engagement will increase the speed ofthe apparatus. In addition, as mentioned briefly above, when theoperator removes his or her foot from the operator presence switch 80,the apparatus automatically disengages the throttle. One skilled in theart will appreciate however, that a throttle 82 may be provided thatprovides selective speed increments, such as employed on an automobile,without departing from the scope of the invention.

It is likewise known that a throttle used on an electric motor drivedevice could operate by switches which regulate power delivered frombatteries to a motor. For instance, and referring now to FIG. 10 fromincorporated by reference U.S. Pat. No. 4,196,492: “batteries 240 areconnected through a manually operable switch 117 to a solenoid operatedswitch 134. Switch 134 has two sets of normally open contacts 132 andtwo sets of normally closed contacts 133. All the contacts 132 and 133are mechanically coupled together by means of a rod 135 for simultaneousganged operation when coil 136 is energized. In the operation ofcleaning machine 202, when the manually operable switch 117 is closed bythe operator, coil 136 is energized causing the contacts 132 to close.This feeds power through to a potentiometer 131. Potentiometer 131 maybe used to vary the voltage there through to adjust the speed of drivemotor 108. From the potentiometer 131, the power passes through aforward and reverse switch 120. Forward and reverse switch 120 isidentical to that disclosed in FIG. 7 and has for its purpose thechanging of the polarity of the voltage applied to drive motor 108 todrive that motor in forward or reverse directions. However, indicatorlights generally indicated as 260 and 262 are wired into the forward andreverse switch 120. When the motor 108 is being driven in a forwarddirection, the green indicator light 260 will light. Conversely, whenthe motor 108 is being driven in a reverse direction, the red indicatorlight 262 will be lit.”

Embodiments of the present invention also include a braking mechanism.For example, when an operator removes his or her foot from the operatorpresence switch 80, throttle, or disengages the platform switch, abraking mechanism may be employed such that any motion of the apparatusautomatically or gradually ceases. The braking mechanism may be electromechanical, mechanical or hydraulic. Alternatively, the foot brake maybe provided adjacent to the throttle 82 or operator presence switch 80that provides the same halting capability. Further, hand or emergencybrakes may be employed adjacent to the control panel of the apparatus.

Referring now to FIG. 17A-B, a seat 84 of one embodiment of the presentinvention is shown. More specifically, embodiments of the presentinvention include a selectively connectable seating device 84 forengagement with the chassis to increase the operator comfort. Seats 84of some embodiments of the present invention are selectively adjustable85, thus making them easy to accommodate any sized individual. Inoperation, a receiver hitch, or similar connection mechanism, isconnected to the rear portion of the platform 4 and a mating device forinterconnection to the receiver hitch, or other device, is provided onthe seat 84. The seat 84 may also include a plurality of hooks, shelves,cup holders, etc. for the securement of cords, bags, or any other typeof cleaning or comfort related item. Further, the receiver hitch may beused when the seat 84 is engaged or not engaged, for example, totransport other items such as a supplemental wheeled device that mayaccommodate extra power sources, cleaning supplies, tanks, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 18A-D, a tank 50 of one embodiment of the presentinvention is shown. Some embodiments of the present invention include atank 50 that is equipped with a plurality of lights 89 and/or horns thatfacilitate cleaning and/or act as additional safety features.Alternatively, lights may be integrated into bumpers positioned adjacentto the tank 50 or on the sides of the apparatus.

Although not shown, a filter may be provided in fluid communication withthe fluid pump. This filter is designed to capture any debris that mayadversely affect the operation of the pump. Unfortunately on manycleaning machines, the filter is placed in a hard to access location,such that repair or monitoring thereof is very difficult. Thus, oneembodiment of the present invention includes a filter that is situatedon the outer surface of the housing, perhaps on the control panel. Thus,the operator has ample opportunity to monitor the integrity of thefilter and make quick repairs when necessary.

Referring now to FIG. 19A-B, a vacuum fan 92 which is connected to thefront housing 88 of one embodiment of the present invention is shown.More specifically, a vacuum fan 92 provides suction to remove debrisfilled fluids from the floor. The fan 92 is preferably situated underthe control panel 76 of the vehicle, such that the intake cooling airthat is drawn in by the vacuum fan 92 is channeled adjacent to thecontrol panel 76 to cool componentry associated therewith.

In addition, the tank 50 may be made out of a formable material suchthat exhaust channels 94 may be machined or molded into the tank 50. Thechannels 94 direct the exhaust air from the vacuum 92 to an exit mufflerof the apparatus. The channels 94 also act as a baffle to remove noiseenergy from the exhaust gases, thus making the entire system quieter.

Referring now to FIG. 20, a waste fluid return hose 96 is shown. Morespecifically, one embodiment of the present invention decreases itsprofile by inserting the waste water hose 96 into a hose channel 98 thatis integrated into the outside surface of the apparatus 2. The hose 96being situated on the outside also has the added advantage of making itvery accessible, such that it can be removed and inspected for clogs orbreaches.

Further, some embodiments of the present invention are provided with tipover stops adjacent to the front corners of the apparatus. The stops maybe replaceable and ensure that the apparatus does not tip over duringtight turns. The tip over stops are generally constructed out of amaterial that is harmless to flooring, such as Teflon, silicone, rubber,plastic, etc. In addition, one skilled in the art will appreciate thatrollers may be employed that are situated a predetermined distance fromthe floor to perform the same function.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-20, a manner of making the present invention isshown and described herein. As has been explained, the present inventionis generally similar to the floor treatment devices used in the art.However, unlike many prior art devices, the present invention provides alocation for which the operator can stand or sit, thus enabling him orher to more efficiently perform their tasks. In addition, instead ofusing brute strength to perform the task of steering the cleaningdevice, a steering mechanism and associated hardware are provided to aidin the smooth transition from one direction to another. Also, thepresent invention device has a compact profile and mechanism whichallows for 360° cleaning of tight spaces. Further, to construct theremote control version of the system, software that is known in the artmay be installed in the chassis 8 to allow for the system to be eitherremotely controlled or learn the cleaning surface as it operates. Inaddition, a series of cameras may be interconnected to the chassis 8 toprovide remote viewing to an operator offsite.

While various embodiment of the present invention have been described indetail, it is apparent that modifications and alterations of thoseembodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to beexpressly understood that such modifications and alterations are withinthe scope and spirit of the present invention, as set forth in thefollowing claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A floor treatment apparatus with a platform uponwhich the operator can stand during operation, comprising: a chassishaving a front and a back and a lower surface, a front surface adjacentthe front, a rear surface adjacent the back, a left side and right sideand a platform; at least a first wheel, a second wheel and a thirdwheel, the first wheel and the second wheel located substantially towardthe back of the apparatus; at least one of a debris collection deviceand a fluid collection device connected adjacent the lower surface; apower source interconnected to at least one of the wheels; a mechanismoperably interconnected to at least one of the wheels to allow anoperator to steer the floor treatment apparatus; wherein the platform islocated substantially below the steering mechanism and with a portionthereof positioned substantially directly below an axis extendingbetween the centers of the first wheel and the second wheel, and whereinthe platform includes a throttle actuator to regulate electrical powerwhich is in the form of a foot pedal and an operator presence device,which is operatively connected to and which selectively interruptsoperation of the throttle actuator.
 2. The floor treatment apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the chassis includes a rear housing that is capable ofselective rotation about an axis parallel to the axis extending betweenthe center of the first wheel and the center of the second wheel.
 3. Thefloor treatment apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a brakingmechanism.
 4. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 1, furthercomprising a braking mechanism which is associated with a consolepositioned near the steering mechanism.
 5. The floor treatment apparatusof claim 1, wherein the debris collection device is at least one of abrush, a squeegee, and a vacuum.
 6. The floor treatment apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the power source is interconnected to an electricmonowheel drive motor which is interconnected to the third wheel.
 7. Afloor treatment apparatus comprising: a chassis having a front and aback and with a lower surface, a front surface adjacent the front, anupper surface, a rear surface adjacent the back, a left surface, and aright surface; a first wheel operably interconnected to the lowersurface adjacent to the left surface and located closer to the rearsurface than the front surface; a second wheel operably interconnectedto the lower surface adjacent the right surface and located closer tothe rear surface than the front surface; a platform located below asteering mechanism and substantially between at least a portion of theright surface and at least a portion of the left surface, the platformextending rearwardly from a portion of the rear surface, wherein aportion of the platform is positioned adjacent to an axis extendingbetween the center of the first wheel and the center of the secondwheel, and wherein the platform includes a throttle that regulateselectrical energy and is in the form of a foot pedal and an operatorpresence device which selectively interrupts throttle operation; and afloor treating device connected adjacent to the lower surface of thechassis.
 8. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 7, wherein the floortreating device is at least one of a brush, a burnishing pad, asqueegee, and a vacuum.
 9. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 7,wherein the floor treating device includes a squeegee.
 10. The floortreatment apparatus of claim 7, wherein the chassis includes a rearhousing that is capable of selective rotation about an axis parallel tothe axis extending between the center of the first wheel and the centerof the second wheel.
 11. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 7further including a debris collection device connected adjacent to thelower surface of the chassis.
 12. A floor treatment apparatuscomprising: a chassis having a front surface, a rear surface, a leftsurface, a right surface and a lower surface, the chassis supporting aclean fluid tank, a spent fluid tank, an electric drive motor associatedwith a drive wheel and a plurality of batteries associated with theelectric drive motor, and a vacuum motor; wherein the vacuum motor isoperably connected to the one or more of the batteries and is part of avacuum assembly; a first wheel operably interconnected to the lowersurface adjacent to the left surface and located closer to the rearsurface than the front surface; a second wheel operably interconnectedto the lower surface adjacent the right surface and located closer tothe rear surface than the front surface; wherein the first wheel and thesecond wheel are not interconnected; wherein the drive wheel is operablyinterconnected to the lower surface and located closer to the frontsurface than the rear surface; a multi-part housing comprising a primaryhousing, a front housing portion, and a rear housing portion, themulti-part housing including a plurality of hand holds, and wherein atleast the primary housing is associated with the chassis; a steeringwheel operably interconnected to the multi-part housing, the multi-parthousing also including a control panel; wherein at least a portion ofthe rear housing portion is located adjacent the rear surface of thechassis and is substantially connected to at least one of the primaryhousing and the chassis by one or more hinge members such that the rearhousing portion hingedly rotates relative to the primary housing about asecond axis that is parallel to the axis extending between a center ofthe first wheel and a center of the second wheel, and the one or more ofthe hinge members are located closer to the lower surface of the chassisthan to a top portion of the primary housing; a platform which issubstantially associated with at least a portion of the rear housingportion and located substantially between at least a portion of theright surface of one of the chassis or the multi-part housing and atleast a portion of the left surface of one of the chassis or themulti-part housing and extending from at least a portion of the rearsurface of one of the chassis or the multi-part housing, wherein aportion of the platform is positioned substantially adjacent to the axisextending between the center of the first wheel and the center of thesecond wheel and at least a portion of the platform penetrates athree-dimensional cylindrical volume that is defined by an outer surfaceof the first wheel and the second wheel, wherein the platform includes asubstantially horizontal portion adapted to receive the feet of anoperator and a device that is in operable communication with a handoperated speed range switch and the electric drive motor, the deviceoperable to control locomotion of the apparatus within a selected speedrange, and an operator presence device which is operatively connected toand which selectively interrupts operation of the device; a brake whichis operative to perform a braking function when the device isdisengaged; a scrub brush and a squeegee operably connected to andlocated substantially adjacent to the lower surface of the chassis; andwherein the floor treatment apparatus rotates 360 degrees withoutsubstantially moving in other directions.
 13. The floor treatmentapparatus of claim 12 wherein the plurality of batteries reside on aselectively movable tray.
 14. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 12,wherein the brake performs a braking function when the operator presencedevice is not depressed.
 15. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 12,wherein the platform includes at least one of a left sidewall, a rightsidewall, and a wall that extend above a surface that receives theoperator's feet.
 16. A floor treatment apparatus comprising: amulti-part enclosure comprising a primary enclosure, a front enclosureportion, and a rear enclosure portion, the multi-part enclosure havingfront surface, a rear surface, an upper surface, a lower surface, a leftsurface, and a right surface; a first wheel operably interconnected tothe lower surface adjacent to the left surface and located closer to therear surface than the front surface; a second wheel operablyinterconnected to the lower surface adjacent the right surface andlocated closer to the rear surface than the front surface; a platformlocated closer to the lower surface than the upper surface andsubstantially between at least a portion of the right surface and atleast a portion of the left surface, and extending from a portion of therear surface, wherein a portion of the platform is positionedsubstantially adjacent to an axis extending between a center of thefirst wheel and a center of the second wheel; a floor treatment assemblyoperably connected to at least a portion of the lower surface of atleast a portion of the multi-part enclosure; a power source positionedsubstantially within the multi-part enclosure; an electric monowheeldrive motor associated with the power source; a third wheel associatedwith the electric monowheel drive motor and operably connected adjacentthe lower surface of the multi-part enclosure; a steering mechanismassociated with the third wheel; a steering wheel operablyinterconnected to the multi-part enclosure, the multi-part enclosurealso including a control panel; and wherein the rear enclosure portionis capable of selective rotation about a second axis parallel to theaxis extending between the center of the first wheel and the center ofthe second wheel.
 17. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 16, whereina portion of the platform penetrates a three-dimensional cylindricalvolume that is defined by an outer surface of the first wheel and thesecond wheel.
 18. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 16, wherein theplatform includes a means for controlling speed and an operator presencedevice, which is operatively connected to and which selectivelyinterrupts operation of the means for controlling speed.
 19. The floortreatment apparatus of claim 18, further comprising a brake which isoperative to perform a braking function when at least one of the meansfor controlling speed and operator presence device is disengaged. 20.The floor treatment apparatus of claim 16, wherein the floor treatmentapparatus includes a device for capturing debris and fluid and directingthem to a suction assembly, the device for capturing debris and fluidbeing associated with the lower surface of the multi-part enclosure. 21.The floor treatment apparatus of claim 16, wherein the floor treatmentassembly is at least one of a brush, a scrubber, a burnishing pad, and asqueegee.
 22. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 16, wherein theplatform includes a left sidewall and a right sidewall that extend abovea surface that receives an operator's feet.
 23. The floor treatmentapparatus of claim 16, wherein the platform includes a front wallextending from a surface that receives an operator's feet.
 24. The floortreatment apparatus of claim 16, wherein a portion of the platformextends behind a rearmost portion of the first wheel and the secondwheel.
 25. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 16, wherein the firstwheel and the second wheel are not interconnected.
 26. A floor treatmentapparatus comprising: a multi-part housing comprising a primary housing,a front housing portion, and a rear housing portion, the multi-parthousing having front surface, a rear surface, an upper surface, a lowersurface, a left surface, and a right surface; a first wheel operablyinterconnected to the lower surface adjacent to the left surface andlocated closer to the rear surface than the front surface; a secondwheel operably interconnected to the lower surface adjacent the rightsurface and located closer to the rear surface than the front surface; aplatform located closer to the lower surface than the upper surface andsubstantially between at least a portion of the right surface and atleast a portion of the left surface, and extending from a portion of therear surface, wherein a portion of the platform is positionedsubstantially proximate to an axis extending between the first wheel andthe second wheel; a steering wheel operably interconnected to themulti-part housing, the multi-part housing also including a controlpanel; a floor treatment assembly operably connected to a chassis thatis associated with the multi-part housing; and wherein the rear housingportion is capable of selective rotation away from the primary housing.27. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 26, wherein the platformincludes a means for controlling speed and an operator presence device,which is operatively connected to and which selectively interruptsoperation of the means for controlling speed.
 28. The floor treatmentapparatus of claim 27, further comprising a brake which is operative toperform a braking function when at least one of the means forcontrolling speed and operator presence device is disengaged.
 29. Thefloor treatment apparatus of claim 26, wherein the platform includes aleft sidewall and a right sidewall that extend above a surface thatreceives an operator's feet.
 30. The floor treatment apparatus of claim26, further comprising a plurality of hand holds associated with themulti-part housing.
 31. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 26,further comprising an electric drive motor associated with a drive wheeland a plurality of batteries associated with the electric drive motor.32. The floor treatment apparatus of claim 26, wherein the first wheeland the second wheel are not interconnected.
 33. A floor treatmentapparatus comprising: a multi-part housing comprising a primary housing,a front housing portion, and a rear housing portion, the multi-parthousing having front surface, a rear surface, an upper surface, a lowersurface, a left surface, and a right surface; a platform that extendssubstantially between at least a portion of the right surface, at leasta portion of the left surface and at least a portion of the rearsurface, the platform having a throttle that regulates electrical energyand is in the form of a foot pedal and an operator presence deviceoperatively connected to and which selectively interrupts operation ofthe throttle; a first wheel operably interconnected to the lower surfaceadjacent to the left surface and located closer to the rear surface thanthe front surface; a second wheel operably interconnected to the lowersurface adjacent the right surface and located closer to the rearsurface than the front surface; a third wheel operably connectedadjacent the lower surface of the multi-part housing; a steering wheeloperably interconnected to the multi-part housing, the multi-parthousing also including a control panel; a floor treating deviceconnected adjacent to the lower surface of the multi-part housing; adebris collection device connected adjacent to the lower surface of themulti-part housing; and wherein the rear housing portion is capable ofselective rotation about an axis parallel to the axis extending betweenthe center of a first wheel and the center of a second wheel.
 34. Thefloor treatment apparatus of claim 33, further comprising a brake whichis operative to perform a braking function when at least one of thethrottle and operator presence device is disengaged.
 35. The floortreatment apparatus of claim 33, wherein the platform is located closerto the lower surface than the upper surface, wherein a portion of theplatform is positioned between the first wheel and the second wheel suchthat a portion of the platform penetrates a three-dimensionalcylindrical volume that is defined by the outer surface of the firstwheel and the second wheel.
 36. The floor treatment apparatus of claim33, wherein the platform includes a left sidewall and a right sidewallthat extend above a surface that receives an operator's feet.
 37. Thefloor treatment apparatus of claim 33, wherein the third wheel ispowered by an electric motor and the throttle regulates power from theelectric motor to the third wheel.